Dyes Used in the Treatment of Female UTI

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are far more prevalent among women than men, because women have shorter urethras that allow bacteria to enter the bladder more easily. It's not difficult to diagnose and treat UTIs in women, but because some methods involve the use of dyes, both doctors and patients should exercise caution. Many people are sensitive to dyes and may experience an allergic reaction to the dyes used to diagnose UTIs and the dyes in medications used to treat them.

Iodine Dye

• Iodine dye is sometimes used to diagnose a UTI in women as part of a cystourethrogram. A a cystourethrogram is an X-ray test that displays the size and shape of the bladder. During the test, iodine dye is injected into the bladder via a catheter so that the organ shows up on the X-ray. People with allergies to iodine dye are cautioned not to undergo this test.

Triphinyl Tetrazolium Chloride

• Another dye used at the diagnosis stage is triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC), in a reduction test designed to detect bacteria in the urinary tract. People with sensitivities to this dye should avoid this method of diagnosis.

Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride

• Phenazopyridine hydrochloride, an oral medicine prescribed to relieve the symptoms of a UTI, contains a strong dye that turns the urine orange or red. It is strong enough to stain fabric and contact lenses as well, so patients should take care while they are on this medication.

Methylene Blue

• Methylene blue is a dye found in Prosed, a drug used to treat UTIs. Methylene blue stains the urine a characteristic bright blue color and may cause adverse reactions in some patients, such as dizziness and difficulty in urinating.